Lecture on the Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change)

Introduction

• The lecture discusses the Transtheoretical Model, also known as the Stages of Change.
• Focus on understanding the stages through a practical example involving a client who is a smoker.

Key Stages of Change

1. Pre-Contemplation

• Definition: The individual is not considering change.
• Example: A smoker who absolutely does not want to quit smoking.
• Key Point: No amount of persuasion will shift them toward change at this stage.

2. Contemplation

• Definition: The individual is thinking about change but is not ready to act immediately.
• Example: A smoker considering quitting in the near future but not immediately.
• Key Point: The person acknowledges the need for change but hasn't committed to taking action yet.

3. Preparation

• Definition: The individual is ready to make a change and starts planning for it.
• Example: A smoker who is ready to quit but has not yet taken the final step to do so.
• Key Strategy: Set a quit date, typically two weeks from the current date.
  • Allow the client to continue smoking as usual until the set quit date.
  • Prepare for the quit date using methods like cold turkey or other cessation strategies.